Rochester Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

During the spring and summer months, we see an increase in pedestrian-strike car collisions. As more people choose to take advantage of the nice weather and walk to their destinations, distracted drivers who choose to operate vehicles while distracted by cell phones, and radios put pedestrians at risk.

If you or someone you love is struck and seriously injured by a negligent driver who fails to exercise precaution, you need a Rochester pedestrian accident lawyer with compassion and years of legal experience. In addition to crosswalk accidents, we also handle jogging, sidewalk, hit-and-run and parking lot injury cases. Call today at (844) 444-4444 to speak to a knowledgeable staff member or you can fill out our free initial consultation form online.

WHY DO PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS OCCUR?

Some accidents happen because the driver is intoxicated or high on drugs. A smaller percentage are attributed to inebriated pedestrians walking into traffic. Many accidents occur at night when some drivers ignore stop signs, stop lights or speed controls. Motorists can also fail to yield to pedestrians, engage in distracted driving, operate unsafe vehicles (faulty brake, bald tires, or a faulty steering mechanism) or drive too fast for the circumstances. Hit-and-runs can involve a driver hitting a pedestrian (or another car) and fleeing the scene before law enforcement arrives.

WHAT RIGHTS DO PEDESTRIANS HAVE?

You can find some of your pedestrian legal rights in New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law. These rights include the right of way on sidewalks, and crosswalks. In other words, vehicles may be required to stop to allow pedestrians to cross the street (in designated crosswalk lanes) and on roadways that have no crosswalks.

Pedestrians have duties too, such as adhering to traffic light laws, walking on sidewalks along roadways, and walking against the flow of traffic on roadway shoulders. Pedestrians are also expected to make “common sense” decisions and act reasonably under the circumstances. Pedestrians should try to maintain visibility and avoid distractions while walking in and around traffic, obey road rules, and walk in safe places.

TYPES OF INJURIES SUFFERED BY PEDESTRIANS HIT BY CARS

Pedestrians struck by vehicles can sustain injuries more serious than those sustained by bicyclists or other drivers. The force of a vehicle striking an unprotected body can cause immense injury, including multiple broken bones, internal injuries and bleeding, traumatic brain injuries and even paralysis if the spine is damaged. Victims of car wrecks can spend weeks recovering in the hospital, unable to work or perform daily tasks. Financial stress only adds to the difficulties of dealing with such a traumatic life event.

We want to help you during this upsetting time. We have understanding, experienced attorneys waiting to talk to you about your injuries. If you need a Rochester pedestrian accident lawyer to represent you so you can receive the compensation you deserve, call (844) 444-4444 today to schedule a consultation. If you are not able to come to our office, we can come to you at your home or hospital room. It’s critical that you retain a lawyer as soon as possible to expedite the process of receiving compensation and avoid New York statute of limitations laws.